Unexpected Power Outage in Parts of George
There are unexpected power outages in Conville and Parkdene. An electrician was dispatched to investigate.
Author: Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe
Introduction of Weevils to Control Kariba Weed in Garden Route Dam
The Garden Route Dam, a vital freshwater system in the region, has been grappling with the invasive aquatic fern known as Salvinia molesta, or Kariba Weed. Originating from South America, this fern has spread rapidly across various freshwater bodies in South Africa since its introduction in the early 1900s. Its aggressive growth rate poses a severe threat to local biodiversity and ecosystem health.
In response to this ecological challenge, the George Municipality has implemented a biological control program utilizing the weevil Cyrtobagus salviniae. This initiative aims to provide a sustainable, environmentally friendly solution to manage the proliferation of Kariba Weed in the Garden Route Dam.
Cyrtobagus salviniae, the chosen biocontrol agent, targets Salvinia molesta by feeding on its buds and leaves. The weevil’s life cycle unfolds entirely on the Salvinia molesta plant, with adult females laying eggs on the foliage. These eggs hatch into larvae, which then feed on the roots and buds of the fern before maturing into adult weevils. This natural process effectively reduces the population of Kariba Weed over time.
The Garden Route Botanical Garden, in collaboration with the Centre for Biological Control at Rhodes University, has established a weevil breeding satellite station to support this endeavor. Since the inoculation of weevils into rearing tanks in late 2022, the program has witnessed promising results.
Recent observations in December revealed a surge in Salvinia molesta growth in the Kat River above the George Dam. Prompt action was taken, with the manager of Parks and Recreation at George Municipality coordinating efforts to obtain weevils for inoculation. Subsequent collaborations with the Centre for Biological Control and the Garden Route Botanical Garden facilitated the collection and dispersal of weevils into the dam.
With the assistance of passionate environmentalists like Petrus Crous, who volunteered to disperse weevils to heavily infested areas in the dam, significant progress has been made. Follow-up assessments have indicated notable damage to Salvinia molesta plants by the weevils, underscoring the efficacy of this biological control strategy.
Looking ahead, further inoculations are planned before winter sets in, targeting areas yet to receive weevils. This ongoing initiative underscores the commitment of stakeholders to safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Garden Route Dam and its surrounding ecosystems.
Report by Doug Cooke (plant specialist), Garden Route Botanical Garden
Reconstruction of Bank Street in George Industrial
The Reconstruction of the Road and Cul-de-sac will have an impact on road users of Bank Street in George Industrial for the period from April 2024 to July 2024
PROJECT:
RECONSTRUCTION OF BANK STREET IN GEORGE INDUSTRIAL (KM 0.000 TO KM 0.159)
DESCRIPTION:
Reconstruction of the entire length of Bank Street (approximately 160m) including associated stormwater drainage.
CONSTRUCTION PERIOD:
2 April 2024 – 24 July 2024 (Weather permitting)
SERVICE DISRUPTION:
There will be accommodation of traffic on Bank Street due to the proposed construction works. There may be Municipal service disruptions during construction. Advance notification of planned temporary disruptions will be sent out via social media.
WORKING HOURS:
Working hours will be from 07h00 to 18h00 Mondays to Fridays and 07h00 – 14h00 on Saturdays as may be needed from time to time.
TRAFFIC IMPACT:
The reconstruction of Bank Street is envisioned to minimally impact the users of the road. Traffic accommodation plans will be implemented to ensure no major disruptions.
ACCESS TO SITE:
Access to the site will be strictly controlled. Any member of the public who enters the site will have to comply with the relevant requirements in terms of the Health and Safety Act.
PROJECT ENQUIRIES: Can be made to prenolan@bmkgroup.co.za
The George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience and appeals to all road users to be patient and exercise caution during the upgrade. Please look out for and adhere to temporary road signage and roadworks personnel.
Temporary Water outage in Lyonville, Uniondale
Uniondale water treatment plant is currently experiencing operational difficulties. Operational teams are attending to the problem. The area of Lyonville will experience water outages. A water truck will roam the area. The estimated time of repair is unknown at this stage.
Update: Haarlem Fires Contained
We are pleased to report that light rain has contributed to a decrease in temperatures and a reduction in fire intensity. As a result, the fire is now contained, with teams from the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) fire and Working on Fire (WOF) remaining on-site to conduct mop-up operations and monitor the area throughout the night. The George firefighting team has safely returned to the station with all vehicles.
The George Municipality’s Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz, commends the team for their exceptional work and unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety of communities and the protection of structures.
Mountain Fire Incident in Haarlem near George
On Friday evening, 15 March 2024, mountain fires broke out in Haarlem, a small town on the eastern outskirts of the George Municipal precinct. The George Fire Brigade, along with the Garden Route District Municipality’s Fire Services, Southern Cape Fire Protection Association (SCFPA), and Working on Fire (WOF), promptly mobilised their firefighting teams to respond to the blaze. The cause of the fire remains unknown at this stage.
This morning, 16 March, firefighting crews conducted a full reconnaissance and subsequently deployed drones. Currently, the northwestern line against Haarlem town poses no threat to structures. Meanwhile, the southern line remains active, with ground crews diligently working to contain it. The northeasterly line is advancing towards orchards, prompting the George Fire team to mobilise in that direction. Additionally, the George Mobile Water tanker has been activated to provide water support to the firefighters.
Despite the fire’s intensity, the firefighting teams are effectively safeguarding all structures, ensuring their security. We will continue to provide updates on any developments regarding the situation.
For any emergencies, the George Fire Department can be contacted on Fire Emergencies: 044 801 6311 or After-Hours and Emergencies: 044 801 6300.
Upgrading of Schaapkop Pump Station & Associated Infrastructure Portion 1:
CIVIL, MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL, CONTROL & INSTRUMENTATION WORK
The Upgrading of Schaapkop Pumpstation Portion 1 in Borcherds, from April 2024 to June 2025. The estimated construction duration is 14 months.
PROJECT:
UPGRADING OF SCHAAPKOP PUMP STATION & ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE PORTION 1
DESCRIPTION:
The construction work includes mechanical, electrical, and control & instrumentation works, as well as related civil and structural works in the pump station.
PROJECT PERIOD: April 2024 to June 2025.
SERVICE DISRUPTION:
Operational interruptions can be expected during the construction works of the pump station and the pipelines. Advance notification of planned temporary disruptions and the effects thereof will be issued via social media.
WORKING HOURS: 07h00 to 17h00 Mondays to Fridays. Work may also take place on Saturdays from 07h00 to 14h00.
IMPACT:
The intended construction works will take place inside the sewage pump station site and an extension towards the south. The work area will be fully closed to the public throughout the construction period.
ACCESS TO SITE:
Access to the site will be strictly controlled. No member of the public will be allowed access to the construction area, in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
PROJECT ENQUIRIES: Mr Gerard de Swardt – 044 801 8000 (Ext 1571)
The George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience and appeals to the
public to be patient and exercise caution throughout the construction period.
Alien Invasive Plant Awareness Campaign: Ipomoea indica/alba/purpurea/hederifolia
Municipal Plant of the Month – Ipomoea indica/alba/purpurea/hederifolia: All species have been classified as invasive in South Africa. Commonly they are known as the Morning Glory. Nearly all species of these plants are perennial and have tenacious vines bearing purple, blue, scarlet, white (moonflower) and pink flowers which open each morning and fade at night.
All Ipomoea tolerate a wide range of average to poor soil and sunny to partial shade conditions. The leaves are heart-shaped, bright green and sparsely hairy.
It spreads by seed.
Invasive status: Listed as a Category 1b (NEMBA), this creeper invades woodlands, waste areas, arable land, roadsides, riverbanks and coastal dunes. It is a habitat transformer as it scrambles over and competes with other species.
Control: It is extremely difficult to control. All plants must be systematically uprooted and destroyed. No specific herbicides are registered. Regular follow-up is essential.
References: www.invasives.org.za : www.sanbi.org :
UPDATE PUBLIC NOTICE – Gwaing River and River Mouth Remain Closed
The Gwaing River and River Mouth remain closed following a sewer spill into the river that was caused by a damaged Pipeline earlier this week. The damaged pipeline and electrical lines that were damaged by a service provider were subsequently repaired and are operational.
However, as a precautionary measure, the George Municipality’s Civil Engineering Department is currently conducting water quality tests over the next few weeks until it can be confirmed that the river`s water quality meets the minimum requirements.
Until then the river remains closed.
Upgrading of Conville Water Reticulation Network
UPGRADING OF CONVILLE WATER RETICULATION NETWORK
The upgrading of the water reticulation network in Conville will have some impact on the residents and road users during the construction for the period of March 2024 to November 2024. The estimated construction duration is 8 months.
PROJECT:
UPGRADING OF CONVILLE WATER RETICULATION NETWORK
DESCRIPTION:
The work consists of installing approximately 7600m HDPE Class 12 water reticulation pipes by means of in-situ pipe cracking varying in size from 110mm to 160mm, installing erf connections, smart water meters, isolation valves, fire hydrants, as well as associated reinstatements.
PROJECT PERIOD:
March 2024 to November 2024.
SERVICE DISRUPTION:
Interruption can be expected during the connection to the existing reticulation, commissioning, and re-connection. Advance notification of planned temporary disruptions will be sent out via social media.
WORKING HOURS:
Working hours will be from 07h00 to 17h00 Mondays to Fridays.
IMPACT:
The intended construction works will take place mainly in the road reserves with some open trench road crossings planned and work on properties during re-connection and commissioning. The works will impact on residents, pedestrians, scholars, runners, cyclists, and road users. It is, however, important for the public to take notice of the intended works since there will be excavations and work done on existing water infrastructure. The work area will be fully closed to the public. No member of the public may access the construction area throughout the construction period. Access to properties will be managed between the contractor and the property occupants.
ACCESS TO SITE:
Access to the site will be strictly controlled. No member of the public will be allowed access to the construction area, in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
PROJECT ENQUIRIES:
Mr Flip van Jaarsveld (Neil Lyners and Associates) – 044 887 0223.
The George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience and appeals to the public to be patient and exercise caution throughout the construction period. Please look out for all temporary road signage and construction personnel.
Upgrading of George South Stormwater Infrastructure: Phase 1
UPGRADING OF GEORGE SOUTH STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE: PHASE 1
The upgrading of a section of the George South stormwater infrastructure will have an impact on residents, pedestrians, runners, cyclists, and road users. Construction will commence in March 2024. The estimated construction duration is 6 months.
PROJECT:
UPGRADING OF GEORGE SOUTH STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE: PHASE 1
DESCRIPTION:
The purpose of this Contract is to upgrade a section of the existing stormwater infrastructure to minimize the impact of severe rainfall events within the George South area. The scope of works includes replacing stormwater pipelines, junction boxes, catch pits, inlet structures, outlet structures, portal culverts and the construction of a detention pond.
PROJECT PERIOD:
March 2024 to August 2024.
SERVICE DISRUPTION:
No Municipal services will be affected. Road lane closures will be implemented along the alignment of the new stormwater infrastructure. The Contractor will liaise with affected residents in advance, to arrange local access where and when required.
WORKING HOURS:
Working hours will be from 07h00 to 18h00 Mondays to Fridays, and potentially from 07h00 to 14h00 on Saturdays.
IMPACT:
The construction area will be fully closed to the public. No pedestrians, runners or cyclists may access the construction area throughout the construction period. Flag persons and temporary road signage must be always adhered to.
ACCESS TO SITE:
Access to the construction site will be strictly controlled. No member of the public will be allowed access to the construction area, in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
PROJECT ENQUIRIES: Mr Armand Scheepers – 044 801 9270
Update: Uniondale – Please use water sparingly!
Please be advised that the technical issue that was detected at the Uniondale Dam which has affected the dam level, has been resolved. The dam water level is picking up gradually. However, the residents of Uniondale are still requested to use water sparingly.
Mayor’s Newsletter for the week ending Friday 8 March 2024
Ald Leon van Wyk, Executive Mayor of George
On Friday, 1 March 2024 it was reported that Knysna Municipal Council had accepted the Western Cape Government’s diagnostic assessment and financial recovery support plan to address the deepening service delivery crisis in our neighbouring municipality.
This decision is the first step of the many that will need to be taken over the coming months and years. In all municipalities, the budget is delicately balanced between the collection of budgeted revenues and planned expenditure, often only leaving a surplus of 1% or less. This calls for responsible management by the administration and oversight by the council. In Knysna, it is not only a collapse of service delivery in respect of water, refuse and sewage services and under-collection of outstanding debtors. There is also a substantial bank overdraft along with outstanding creditors. The recovery process will be a long haul. Knysna is a case study for citizens to reflect on how the votes that they cast in the 2021 local government elections have contributed to the instability in the council and the administration. Councils need to practise good governance to ensure that municipalities are able to deliver the services that they are mandated to deliver.
The collapse of state capacity in Knysna has had direct knock-on effects on the lives of citizens and the economy. This also affects George and the region where the leadership and management of local authorities have been working hard to make improvements that will benefit communities and ethe economy.
During the past week, I have been involved in a series of engagements to address the challenges being experienced in the Province and the country. During the regular quarterly meeting where the premier meets with mayors and municipal managers, we were briefed on the ongoing energy crisis and the efforts to get additional megawatts of renewable energy being generated privately into the grid as soon as possible. We also reviewed the disaster management measures put in place to counter the 12-day electricity blackout across Central Karoo towns after grid pylons collapsed in a severe thunderstorm. Lessons learnt have also been noted. During the current summer season there was an alarming increase in the number of mountain and veld fires. During the fires in Overstrand, teams from George were sent to provide assistance.
During a workshop held in Cape Town, we were briefed on the importance of implementing successful international practices in our cities and towns. This reinforced the approach and work that is being undertaken in George. The maintenance and upgrade of infrastructure, whilst ensuring basic service provision are proven ingredients to attract investment and jobs. Employment is the key driver to improve the quality of life for our citizens. It is therefore important to create the linkages to ensure that entrepreneurs and economic stakeholders step forward to collaborate in moulding opportunities that will benefit our citizens. In addition, it is critical that measures are introduced to reduce crime. The sustainability of energy and water provision will require attention. The education and health systems require improvements along with practical measures to reduce levels of poverty.
Alderman Leon van Wyk
Executive Mayor of George
Public Notice: Uniondale – Please use water sparingly!
PUBLIC NOTICE: UNIONDALE – Please use water sparingly!
Issued George Municipality, 6 March 2024 @14h30
Please be advised that a technical issue has been detected at the Uniondale Dam which has affected the dam level. We urgently request the public of Uniondale to use water sparingly until this matter can be resolved.
Updates will be provided.
George Municipality participates in an Annual Career Exhibition in Uniondale
Approximately 744 learners from schools in Uniondale, Haarlem and surrounding areas attended the Career Exhibition
George Municipality’s commitment to fostering educational and career development was prominently demonstrated through active participation in the annual Career Pathing and Awareness open day held in Uniondale on 20 and 21 February 2024.
The event witnessed enthusiastic involvement from various Service Departments of George Municipality, including Electrotechnical Services, Civil Engineering Services Department, Traffic Department, Law Enforcement, and Fire & Rescue Services. Organised by Cape Nature in collaboration with the George Municipality’s Youth Office, this annual Career Exhibition serves the Uniondale, Haarlem surrounding rural areas.
Aiming to create awareness and introduce students and youth to diverse career paths available locally and across South Africa, the event also seeks to inspire hope and guide informed decision-making regarding subject choices. Approximately 744 learners from schools in Avontuur, Vlakteplaas, Kommandantsdrift, Dirk Boshoff Primary School in Haarlem, and Uniondale High School actively participated in the exhibition.
The event featured not only George Municipality’s departments but also various stakeholders, including Cape Nature, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Forensic Pathology Services, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), South African NAVY, South African Police Services (SAPS), Explosive Unit, K9 SAPS, Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Ka Attiqua and other organisations. By bringing together these diverse entities, the collective effort aimed to provide valuable insights and information, empowering the youth to make informed decisions about their future careers.
Back from left: Grayham De Bruin & Marowayne Ruiters (Peer educators at Uniondale Youth Office).
Unexpected Power Outage in New Dawn Park, Pacaltsdorp
Issued by George Municipality, 3 March 2024 @16:30
Portions of Pacaltsdorp including New Dawn Park are experiencing power outages. The repairs are underway, and the estimated time of repair is 2 hours.
Eskom Loadshedding Update 3 March 2024
Sunday, 03 March 2024: Due to the return of some generating units to service since Friday and the sufficient emergency reserves, loadshedding will remain suspended until 16:00 on Monday. Thereafter, Stage 2 loadshedding will resume from 16:00 until 05:00 on Tuesday, when loadshedding will be suspended again from 05:00 until 16:00. The alternating pattern of suspending loadshedding from 05:00 until 16:00 and implementing Stage 2 loadshedding from 16:00 until 05:00 will be repeated daily until further notice.
George will be affected as follows:
Sunday 03/03/2024
None
Monday 04/03/2024
None
Tuesday 05/03/2024
20:00 – 22:30
Wednesday 06/03/2024
20:00 – 22:30
Thursday 07/03/2024
04:00 – 05:30
Friday 08/03/2024
04:00 – 05:30
Uniondale will be affected as follows:
Sunday 03/03/2024
None
Monday 04/03/2024
17:00 – 19:30
Tuesday 05/03/2024
16:00 – 19:30
23:00 – 01:30
Wednesday 06/03/2024
23:00 – 01:30
Thursday 07/03/2024
None
Friday 08/03/2024
None
Pipe Burst in Blanco and a Water Truck has been Dispatched
PIPE BURST IN BLANCO AND A WATER TRUCK HAS BEEN DISPATCHED
Issue by George Municipality, 3 March 2024 @12:25
A pipe burst occurred in the mains on the Corner of Soeteweide & Montagu Streets in Blanco.
ETR 4HRS. Affected areas are Soeteweide Str; Soeteweide Country Estate; and Farms under the MOD water scheme. A Water truck has been dispatched and will be stationed at the entrance to Soeteweide Country Estate.
Urgent Notice: Water Outage – Fairbourne Road and Rooirivier Rif
Issued by George Municipality, 02 March 2024 @12:05
George Municipality’s Water Maintenance Team is busy with a main water pipe leak on Fairbourne Road in Kingswood and had to isolate this section of the water network in Barkhuisen Drive. As a result of this, a wider area is affected, due to a faulty valve not isolating properly that normally isolates this section of Kingswood.
Due to this Rooirivier Rif will also be affected by water outage.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused and request the public’s patience while we’re attending to the leak. The estimated time of repair is 2 hours.
Eskom Loadshedding Update, 1 March 2024
POWER ALERT 1 Loadshedding to be suspended from 05:00 until 16:00 on Saturday. Friday, 01 March 2024: Due to the anticipated return to service of additional generating units over the weekend, Stage 2 loadshedding will continue to be implemented until 05:00 on Saturday. Thereafter, loadshedding will be suspended until 16:00. Stage 2 loadshedding will resume from 16:00 until 05:00 on Sunday. This alternating pattern of suspending loadshedding from 05:00 until 16:00 and implementing Stage 2 loadshedding from 16:00 until 05:00 will be repeated on Sunday.
George will be affected as follows:
Friday 01/03/2024
22:00 – 00:30
Saturday 02/03/2024
22:00 – 00:30
Sunday 03/03/2024
None
Uniondale will be affected as follows:
Saturday 02/03/2024
01:00 – 03:30
Sunday 03/03/2024
01:00 – 03:30